Therapists often inadvertently reinforce existing power disparities. This class explores how therapists can position their clinical responses to interrupt and transform detrimental power differences in intimate relationships. Using an approach that links emotion, societal context, and couple interaction, the class will focus on moment-by-moment process in couple therapy. Students will to learn to identify power dynamics in couple relationships and practice clinical competencies that empower couples to create an equitable foundation based on four elements of mutual support: mutual attunement, mutual vulnerability, mutual influence, and shared relational responsibility.
- Teacher: Carmen Knudson-Martin